Marlins not shopping Stanton, and my HOF ballot — Sorry about the absence, but used some vacation time, covered the Sugar Bowl, and watched with detached amusement as the Giancarlo Stanton trade rumors swirled about. The Marlins are not shopping Stanton. They are not dangling him like the carrot at the end of a stick.

Sources: Upton trade talks still on — Justin Upton for Chase Headley? — The Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres have held on-and-off discussions about a trade involving those players since July, but the talks have failed to progress, according to major-league sources.

Berkman close to signing with Texas — The Texas Rangers — closing in on a new designated hitter — are finalizing an agreement with free agent Lance Berkman, according to major-league sources. — The contract is expected to be for one year in the $10 million to $11 million range …

Indians step up to plate, but DH remains a need — CLEVELAND — The Indians are not done looking for ways to upgrade aspects of their roster. After signing right-hander Brett Myers, though, the club appears to be done doling out substantial big league contracts to free agents.

Buster Posey's incredible arbitration case — Buster Posey hasn't played in two full seasons' worth of regular-season games yet — 308, to be exact. But he's made the most of his time in the big leagues, winning a rookie of the year award, a batting title, a most valuable player award and two World Series titles with the Giants.

Still unsure of comeback, Vazquez eyes Nats — WASHINGTON — Right-hander Javier Vazquez said Saturday that he has not made a final decision about his future in the big leagues. If he decides to make a comeback, he would consider playing for the Nationals even though their rotation is set.

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